Manchester United: Most exciting season opener ever?

Ok, Manchester United and Manchester City played out the title decider on a Monday in April this year. That was a much bigger occasion, even though the game itself was a bit drab.

But, in terms of anticipation and excitement, this Monday evening has to be one of the more eagerly awaited in recent history.

The idea of Robin Van Persie going to Manchester United is still quite hard to digest. Has it really happened or have I just awoken from an incredibly long and lucid dream?

If indeed he has signed for Manchester United then we should see him make his debut tonight at Goodison park. The potential of the Rooney/Van Persie partnership is frightening. You would struggle to find many better left footers than RVP and, equally, it’s hard to think of a player with better command of his right boot than Rooney. Accordingly, Manchester United’s first choice strike force should offer incredible balance this season. It would be nice to see them start together to get some minutes under their belt as a duo. Hopefully RVP won’t be on the bench.

Another who it would be really good to see from the start is Shinji Kagawa. soccersweep was dubious about his signing, but in pre-season he has looked unbelievably good. Even if he doesn’t start tonight, it won’t be long before he is one of the first names on the team sheet. Kagawa is the epitome of the modern midfielder. Smallish, fast, technically excellent and very athletic. His exact position in the team is less certain but this kid will cause huge problems for the opposition and will improve Manchester United’s midfield no end. He’s like a mixture of City’s Samir Nasri and David Silva. Kagawa is an absolute gem of a player.

Whoever starts the game, the world and his dog will be watching tonight.